Book Review - Beautiful Behaviors by Chris Schimel
Redefining Christian Conduct to Reflect the Radiance of Christ Chris Schimel addresses the subject of developing Christian conduct in this new and important spiritual guidebook.
From the very first page of "Beautiful Behaviors" Chris challenges the reader to examine the religious traditions that have molded personal restrictions and conduct and how this impacts accepting the liberating freedom that comes with following Christ.
Chris uses stories from real life, his own experiences in ministry, and illustrations from scripture applications to demonstrate God's generous gift of grace and His unmerited favor.
These examples express the importance of meeting people where they are and allowing God's Spirit to do the work of "the extreme makeover" as seekers become followers of the model and example of the life of Christ.
Scripturally based with foundational truths Schimel's writing resonates with the ideal that when Christians model Christ's character, love and forgiveness, the Holy Spirit will complete the work of repentance, renewal and regeneration.
The chapter dealing with recognizing the value of the beauty of laughter was very insightful.
Reflecting on principles of restoration, resolution, and restitution through forgiveness had a profound impact on me, personally.
Chris also gave me tremendous insights into transforming Christian conduct into beautiful behaviors by being constrained through love.
I also appreciated the need to recognize the innocence of children, the power of a "high five," and the unique diversity of spiritual gifts and abilities for every individual within the church body, including the children and youth.
Chris uses thought provoking and challenging ideas which many may feel are on the edge of being radical.
I was quite surprised and pleased to realize that my home church is acknowledging and practicing some of these very same "cutting edge" principles.
"Beautiful Behaviors" is an effective personal approach with suggestions for facilitating renewal and dynamic new perceptions of how Christians can reflect the glory and character of Christ's brightness to honor Him through awe encompassed, authentic, non judgmental love.
Schimel offers practical, instructional, and inspirational, guidelines which can be adapted by Christians everywhere to bring freedom, forgiveness, and fulfillment and to create a new freshness within the Christian community.
As reviewed for Midwest Book Review.
From the very first page of "Beautiful Behaviors" Chris challenges the reader to examine the religious traditions that have molded personal restrictions and conduct and how this impacts accepting the liberating freedom that comes with following Christ.
Chris uses stories from real life, his own experiences in ministry, and illustrations from scripture applications to demonstrate God's generous gift of grace and His unmerited favor.
These examples express the importance of meeting people where they are and allowing God's Spirit to do the work of "the extreme makeover" as seekers become followers of the model and example of the life of Christ.
Scripturally based with foundational truths Schimel's writing resonates with the ideal that when Christians model Christ's character, love and forgiveness, the Holy Spirit will complete the work of repentance, renewal and regeneration.
The chapter dealing with recognizing the value of the beauty of laughter was very insightful.
Reflecting on principles of restoration, resolution, and restitution through forgiveness had a profound impact on me, personally.
Chris also gave me tremendous insights into transforming Christian conduct into beautiful behaviors by being constrained through love.
I also appreciated the need to recognize the innocence of children, the power of a "high five," and the unique diversity of spiritual gifts and abilities for every individual within the church body, including the children and youth.
Chris uses thought provoking and challenging ideas which many may feel are on the edge of being radical.
I was quite surprised and pleased to realize that my home church is acknowledging and practicing some of these very same "cutting edge" principles.
"Beautiful Behaviors" is an effective personal approach with suggestions for facilitating renewal and dynamic new perceptions of how Christians can reflect the glory and character of Christ's brightness to honor Him through awe encompassed, authentic, non judgmental love.
Schimel offers practical, instructional, and inspirational, guidelines which can be adapted by Christians everywhere to bring freedom, forgiveness, and fulfillment and to create a new freshness within the Christian community.
As reviewed for Midwest Book Review.